Wearing headphones or earphones might make your ears a cozy spot for bacteria. Your ears are already moist and have oils and dead skin, which bacteria love. In a study at Manipal University from 2008 in India, it was discovered that using earbuds a lot increased the number of bacteria in the ear, mainly a common skin bacterium called staphylococcus. Another study from 1992 in the US found that over-the-ear headphones used by airlines had 11 times more bacteria after just one hour of use.
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Even though it may sound a bit gross, it’s not necessarily a big problem. In the second study, the headphones were cleaned before use, so they started with very few bacteria. The 11 times increase still resulted in a relatively low number overall. Also, this rapid increase couldn’t be explained by bacteria reproducing quickly. The researchers think most of the bacteria were already in deeper skin layers and in the sebaceous glands that make ear wax. Wearing headphones just encouraged them to come out.
Moreover, there’s no proof that these bacteria cause harm. A study in 2002 with call center workers in Malaysia found no connection between using headphones and ear infections. The germs increasing in your ear while you enjoy music or podcasts are usually the ones that live there naturally, and your ear can handle them well. While some studies suggest that frequently putting in and taking out earbuds or earplugs might raise the risk of skin scrapes, allowing harmful bacteria in, there’s not strong evidence for this yet.
How long is it safe to use earphones everyday
The safety of using earphones or headphones every day depends on various factors, including the volume level, duration of use, and the type of earphones. Here are some general guidelines to consider.
- Volume Level: Listening at high volumes for extended periods can lead to hearing damage. It’s recommended to keep the volume at a moderate level, generally around 60% of the maximum volume.
- Duration of Use: Taking breaks during prolonged headphone use is essential. Continuous use for hours on end without breaks may increase the risk of ear fatigue and discomfort.
- Type of Earphones: The design of the earphones can impact safety. In-ear headphones, which sit inside the ear canal, may carry a higher risk of causing damage compared to over-ear headphones. This is because in-ear headphones can deliver sound directly into the ear canal.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: While noise-canceling headphones can provide a more immersive experience, they may also lead to increase the volume to compensate for ambient noise. This could potentially increase the risk of hearing damage.
In terms of a specific time limit, there isn’t a universally agreed-upon duration that applies to everyone. However, experts often suggest following the “60/60 rule”: listening at 60% of the maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time, followed by a break.
Ultimately, it’s important to be mindful of your listening habits, pay attention to any signs of discomfort or hearing changes, and adjust your usage accordingly. If you have concerns about your hearing or ear health, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. Enjoy!
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